Travelling to the United States FAQs

Faculty, staff and students should review the University’s travel safety requirements for all University-sanctioned travel on the Safety Abroad website and the Guidance for International Travel memo. It is important to note that these updates are reminders of what has always been the case with respect to international travel to any jurisdiction.  

Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisories  

Anyone contemplating international travel should regularly consult the Government of Canada travel advisories for updated information in advance of, and during their travel.  

Here are recent updates to the Government of Canada advice for travel to the United States: 

  • U.S. authorities strictly enforce entry requirements. Individual border agents often have significant discretion in enforcing these requirements.  

    • The University recommends you be prepared to comply and be forthcoming with border authorities and have a contingency plan in case entry is denied. If you are denied entry, you could be detained while awaiting deportation. 

  • U.S. border agents are entitled to search your electronic devices, such as your phones, computers or tablets, when you are entering the United States. They do not need to provide a reason to request your password to access your device. If you refuse, they may seize your device. The border agent can also delay your travel or deny entry if you are not a U.S. citizen. 

    • The University recommends you consider what devices you bring when you travel. Please see Travelling to the United States FAQs for information on protecting your data and digital devices.

  • Authorities may request proof of legal status in the U.S. at any time. Be prepared to show evidence of your legal presence in the U.S.  

    • The University recommends travellers always carry their immigration documents with them (including passport, visa, proof of activity in the United States). 

  • Canadians and other foreign nationals visiting the United States for periods longer than 30 days must be registered with the United States Government. The Travelling to the United States FAQs provides information on how you may confirm that you have met registration requirements.

  • Failure to comply with the registration requirement could result in penalties, fines, and misdemeanor prosecution. You should consult the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website to determine if you need to register with USCIS and how to do so.  

The Government of Canada continually updates the travel advice and advisories. Sign up for email updates from the Government of Canada's website at https://travel.gc.ca/stay-connected/subscribe. 

All travellers are responsible for reviewing and ensuring compliance with entry and exit requirements to any destination. Information on resources outlining requirements is provided on registration with Safety Abroad.  Every individual should review the risks associated with travel to any destination and decide if they are willing to accept those risks. The decision to allow entry at the border rests with that destination’s government. The University of Waterloo cannot intervene in immigration matters.  

Please review the important information found in the Frequently Asked Questions below.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I am travelling with a non-Canadian passport and/or have a non-Canadian place of birth?

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport, an emergency travel document, a non-Canadian passport or for those with a non-Canadian place of birth. Check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination by clicking this link to search for Foreign Representatives in Canada: Consular Offices' Addresses.

I have concerns that I may be asked to provide proof of legal status while in the United States. What do I need to provide proof of legal status?

Always carry your immigration documents with you. Every traveller will have different immigration documents but may include a passport, NEXUS card, visa, proof of employment, I-94, DS-2019.

How do I confirm if I have met the registration requirements for the United States?

Review the Alien Registration Requirements webpage to determine if you already registered, who must register, and information on how to register. You can verify if you have been automatically registered on entry to the U.S. by looking up your I-94 admission form on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website. The U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada indicate travellers issued an I-94 form upon arrival in the U.S. are excluded from additional registration requirements (this includes J-1 and TN travellers). Travellers should always verify the latest guidance on registration requirements from USCIS or the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada and your visa sponsor prior to travel.

I have concerns about gaining entry to the United States. What should I expect at the border when I enter the United States?

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders and the Government of Canada connect intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements for the United States. Individual border agents often have significant discretion in making those determinations. U.S. authorities strictly enforce entry requirements. Expect scrutiny at ports of entry, including of electronic devices. Comply and be forthcoming in all interactions with border authorities. If you are denied entry, you could be detained while awaiting deportation.

The Government of Canada travel advice states:

  • Customs officials may ask you to provide your address while in the United States (including Puerto Rico). Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers may also ask for:
    • evidence of residential, employment or educational ties to Canada
    • proof that the trip is for a legitimate purpose and is of a reasonable length
    • proof of sufficient funds to cover your
  • You must declare your intended duration of stay upon entry into the United States
  • You must provide proof of citizenship
  • You must register as a foreign national visiting the United States for periods longer than 30 days
  • Review all entry information on the Government of Canada travel advice webpage

I have concerns about travelling to an international location related to my gender identity, gender expression, and/or sexual orientation. What should I do?

How can I protect my digital travel safety while travelling?

I am a co-op student completing a work term in the United States. Do I need to register with the Alien Registration Requirement?

According to the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada, students issued an I-94 form upon arrival in the U.S. are excluded from additional registration requirements (this includes J-1 and TN travellers). Students should always verify the latest guidance from USCIS or the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Canada prior to travel. Please contact the U.S. Consulate and your visa sponsor to ensure compliance with all requirements as a visitor to the U.S.

What do I do if I have questions about my safety while travelling abroad on University-sanctioned travel?

Non-emergency safety and security questions should be sent via email to [email protected]. The University regularly monitors the incoming emails during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm EST) and periodically checks this inbox outside of regular business hours. Our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

In an emergency, please call University of Waterloo Special Constable Services at +1-519-888-4911. Access to Special Constable Service is available 24 hours/day, 365 days/year. If you require medical assistance, contact your medical insurance provider. Other emergency contact points are detailed on the Safety Abroad website https://uwaterloo.ca/international/who-contact-emergency.